THE world is under attack from another malicious malware virus. This is what you need to know to keep your computer — and your personal information — safe.

Jennifer Dudley-Nicholson News Corp Australia Network
June 28, 2017

THE latest ransomware virus has affected businesses and critical infrastructure worldwide, including Australia.

Here are seven things you need to know about the Petya/NotPetya/Goldeneye virus:

1. Update, update, update

Update your Microsoft software as a priority as this ransomware uses the same vulnerability, dubbed EternalBlue, as WannaCry ransomware.
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Anti-virus programs from 39 companies including McAfee, Bitdefender, and Kaspersky have also detected and stopped the ransomware from spreading.

2. Update some more

Make sure every computer connected to yours is using the latest patched Microsoft Windows software.

The new Petya ransomware spreads from one infected computer to others on its network, even if those computers have been updated.

If you regularly connect to a corporate or enterprise network using a virtual private network, it’s best to wait for the all-clear today.

The ransomware can spread over these types of networks.

4. Scrutinise all email

Avoid opening any email attachments unless you’re confident about their source and content.

5. What can you do if your computer is affected?

You can restore your computer from a backup, if you have one.

Petya overwrites and encrypts a computer’s master boot record so recovering information from that computer is highly unlikely. Security experts do not recommend paying criminals a ransom, and their contact email address has already been suspended.
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Ransomware attack hit servers across Europe

6. Who is affected?

As it launched overnight, European businesses and individuals have been most affected, with everything from supermarkets to hospitals unable to access their computers.

Australian businesses connected to international IT systems are also discovering issues this morning, including Cadbury headquarters in Tasmania and the legal offices of DLA Piper.

7. Who is behind this?

It’s too early to say.

North Korea was a suspect behind the WannaCry ransomware attack, but there is little evidence to suggest Petya is from the same group, particularly as it’s more sophisticated.

Some researchers suspect a Ukraine firm could be responsible for some infections.